This blog creates a space for for social workers and therapists to share their favorite interventions, resources, activities, etc. If we all share the wealth of knowledge and experience we have then all of our clients benefit.

Monday, August 12, 2013

Sand Tray 101

1. Direct a child to create a scene (can be general or specific)

Allow client to work unhindered in tray until they tell you they are finished.

Pay attention to what the child picks, discards, does with the sand, etc.

Take not of themes and the energy in the tray that may occur to you as you think about this client’s, particular presenting problem, early years, family situation, etc

2. Look for themes and comment on what you see (relating to the selection and placement of figures).

I notice that…. (ex. this one is all alone in the corner)

3. Make gentle interpretations, but do not share them.

4. Invite the child to describe their scene (examples below)

Tell me about your world

Does your tray have a name?

Does it have a story to go with it? Will you tell me the story?

5. Ask relevant questions (examples below)

What was difficult about doing this? What was easy?

What do you dislike about the scene? What do you like?

Is there anything you would like to change? (Have them change it) How did that feel?

I’m wondering about _____________

If you had to choose one of these figures to be you, which one would it be? (Don’t go farther than this and ask them to tell you what each figure represents, the probably wouldn’t even be able to tell you)

About Me

I am a recent graduate of UCLA's MSW program and am soaking up all I can as a new practitioner. I am passionate about working with youth who have experienced trauma and hope that this blogs will help to continue my growth as a therapist

My Blog

This blog will mainly feature resources for social workers, free book offers and interventions/activities for working with children and adolescents (though any submissions are welcome!). I am also here to answer questions about social work/therapy or graduate school. Contact me at uclasocialworker@gmail.com